It's hard to just sit on the sand when there's so much to do: Beach volleyball nets beckon, an inflatable slide entices, and boat rentals are available for those who would rather be on the water than next to it.

The beach itself is nearly a half-mile long, so you shouldn't have trouble finding a spot to spread your towel, even on crowded days. And when the surf kicks up, move the kids and the blankets to the nearby inland lake for smoother swimming. An amphitheater between the two beaches offers entertainment on most weekends. And special events -- Friday, July 15, to Sunday, July 17, is Kite Flyers Weekend -- bring even bigger crowds to water's edge.

Nearby: The 1,850-acre state park is a destination itself, with a 120-room lodge, 18-hole Scottish-links-style golf course, nature center, bike path and more. Also nearby: the Toledo Zoo and Toledo Museum of Art.

Staying overnight: Park offerings run the gamut, from the lodge to the 252-site campground. Also onsite: 24 two-bedroom cottages. Information: maumeebaystateparklodge.com.

Getting there: The park, 12 miles east of Toledo, is about a two-hour drive from Cleveland. Take I-90 and Ohio 2 east into Lucas County; turn right on Decant Road, left on Corduroy Road and then right on Curtice Road (there will be signs).

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